Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Nevada Statewide Rule

Nevada Big Game Wildlife Feeding Restrictions

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Nevada (2026)

Key Facts

Regulation
NAC 503.145
Applies to
Big game mammals
Includes bears
Yes, intentional feeding
Penalty
Misdemeanor, fines
Enforcement
NDOW game wardens
Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Nevada Legislature

Summary

Nevada Department of Wildlife prohibits feeding big game mammals like deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, antelope, and mountain lions. NAC 503.145 makes intentional feeding unlawful statewide to prevent habituation, disease spread, and human-wildlife conflicts.

1. Except as otherwise provided in subsection 3, a person shall not: (a) Intentionally feed any wildlife classified as a wild mammal by Commission regulation; or (b) Take any bird classified as a game bird by Commission regulation: (1) By baiting such a game bird; or (2) On or above an area that has been baited which the person knows or reasonably should have known has been baited,

Source: Nevada LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

NAC 503.145 prohibits the feeding of big game mammals in Nevada. The rule applies statewide and covers deer, elk, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, mountain lion, and black bear. Intentional placement of feed, salt, or attractants to draw big game is unlawful. Limited exceptions exist for incidental livestock feed, lawful baiting under hunting regulations, and wildlife agency operations. The prohibition addresses chronic wasting disease transmission, vehicle strikes, and aggressive behavior. Local ordinances in Lake Tahoe and Carson City reinforce bear-feeding bans, but state law provides the baseline. Predator feeding and unlawful trash storage attracting bears can also trigger enforcement.

Violations & Penalties

Violations are misdemeanors punishable by fines up to $1,000, six months jail, and revocation of hunting privileges. Repeat violators face escalating penalties under NDOW enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I feed deer in my yard in Nevada?
No. NAC 503.145 prohibits intentionally feeding deer or other big game anywhere in Nevada. This includes putting out corn, salt licks, or other attractants to draw deer to your property.
Are bird feeders or squirrel feeders legal?
Yes. Songbird and small mammal feeders are not prohibited under state law, but if they incidentally attract bears or other big game, NDOW may require removal to prevent habituation.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.